Young people aged 11-14 from York Theatre Royal’s popular Youth Theatre programme, are putting their own twist on A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a new production: Merry Wanderers of the Night. It runs from March 21-23.
Told through the ensemble, these three reincarnations offer young people’s insights into an age-old tale with verve, energy and mischief. With each of the three groups opting to take very different approaches, Shakespeare’s comedy of love, magic and control will be given the aesthetics of the 1920s, the 1980’s and even a rave at a festival.
The costumes have been designed and made by York Theatre Royal’s own wardrobe department and the props made by the Technical and Backstage Youth Theatre group, who meet weekly to learn the backstage roles and skills of theatre production. Each term the group learns techniques that support Youth Theatre productions, while upskilling a future generation of backstage theatre makers.
Julian Ollive, Head of Creative Engagement at York Theatre Royal, said: “Our Youth Theatre programme provides opportunities for young people to perform on our stages with full production support, giving them a taste of working and performing in a professional theatre environment. Over the past 11 weeks, our groups have been working hard to realise their own unique interpretations of Shakespeare’s classic comedy and we are proud to provide the platform to showcase our groups skill and creativity.”
York Theatre Royal Youth Theatre exists to provide opportunities for young people aged 5 – 19 years from our community to participate in weekly drama sessions with the aim of improving confidence, developing performance skills, working as part of a team and enabling participants to live creative lives.
Sessions take place at community venues across York including New Earswick Folk Hall, York St John University, York College and York Theatre Royal.
Booking is now open for the Summer Term.
Box office 01904 623568 | yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
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